The event known as "The Arameans Flee" is a significant episode in the biblical narrative, illustrating God's deliverance of Israel from its enemies. This event is primarily recorded in 2 Kings 7, during the reign of King Joram (Jehoram) of Israel, and involves the miraculous intervention of God against the Aramean (Syrian) army.

Historical Context

The Arameans, also known as Syrians, were a formidable force in the ancient Near East, often at odds with the Israelites. During the time of the divided kingdom, the Arameans, under King Ben-Hadad, laid siege to Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. This siege resulted in a severe famine within the city, causing desperation among the inhabitants.

The Siege of Samaria

The siege of Samaria is described in 2 Kings 6:24-25: "Some time later, Ben-hadad king of Aram mobilized his entire army and marched up to besiege Samaria. So there was a great famine in Samaria, and they continued the siege until a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter cab of dove’s dung sold for five shekels of silver."

The dire situation led to extreme measures among the people, including cannibalism, as recorded in 2 Kings 6:28-29. The king of Israel, in his distress, sought the counsel of the prophet Elisha, who prophesied the end of the famine and the deliverance of the city.

Elisha's Prophecy

Elisha declared a word from the LORD, promising that within a day, the siege would be lifted, and food would be plentiful: "Elisha replied, 'Hear the word of the LORD. This is what the LORD says: About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, six quarts of fine flour will sell for a shekel, and twelve quarts of barley will sell for a shekel.'" (2 Kings 7:1).

Skepticism arose from the king's officer, who doubted the possibility of such a miraculous turnaround. Elisha responded that the officer would see it with his own eyes but would not partake of it (2 Kings 7:2).

The Miraculous Flight of the Arameans

The fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy came through a miraculous event. The LORD caused the Aramean army to hear the sound of chariots, horses, and a great army, leading them to believe that the Israelites had hired the Hittites and Egyptians to attack them. In panic, the Arameans abandoned their camp, leaving behind their tents, horses, donkeys, and provisions: "So they got up and fled at twilight, abandoning their tents and horses and donkeys. The camp was left just as it was, and they ran for their lives." (2 Kings 7:7).

The Discovery by the Lepers

The first to discover the deserted camp were four lepers, who, driven by desperation, ventured into the Aramean camp. Finding it abandoned, they initially plundered the tents but soon realized the need to share the good news with the city: "Then they said to one another, 'We are not doing right. This is a day of good news, and we are keeping it to ourselves. If we wait until daylight, we will be punished. Let us go at once and report this to the royal palace.'" (2 Kings 7:9).

The Fulfillment of the Prophecy

Upon hearing the report, the king of Israel initially suspected a trap but eventually sent out scouts who confirmed the Arameans' flight. The people of Samaria then plundered the Aramean camp, and the abundance of food fulfilled Elisha's prophecy. The skeptical officer, who had doubted the word of the LORD, was trampled at the gate and died, as Elisha had foretold (2 Kings 7:17-20).

Theological Significance

The event of the Arameans fleeing underscores the sovereignty and power of God in delivering His people. It highlights the role of faith and the consequences of disbelief. The narrative serves as a testament to God's ability to provide and protect, even in seemingly impossible situations, and reinforces the importance of trusting in His promises.